Dr. Dennis Pruitt

1995, Doctor of Philosophy in Education Administration, College of Education, University of South Carolina

Dennis Pruitt, vice president for student affairs and vice provost at the University of South Carolina, has led the University’s Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support since 1983. He designed the university’s first and award-winning enrollment-management model, developed what is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most thorough strategic-planning processes in the field and significantly enhanced the university’s student-service programs. Additionally, Dr. Pruitt has successfully recruited, developed and retained nationally recognized Student Affairs leaders. These well-respected professionals have been instrumental in the establishment and ongoing implementation of key educational and service programs that support USC students.

IN 2011, NASPA STUDENT AFFAIRS ADMINISTRATORS IN HIGHER EDUCATION HONORED PRUITT WITH THE SCOTT GOODNIGHT AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS A DEAN, ONE OF THE ORGANIZATION’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS.

Pruitt’s other awards include NASPA Southeast Region’s John Jones Award for Outstanding Performance as a Senior Student Affairs Officer, NASPA’s Outstanding Pillars of the Profession Award, NASPA Southeast Region’s Bob E. Leach Award for Dedicated and Outstanding Service to Students and the Armstrong State College Distinguished Alumni Award.

Pruitt earned his Doctorate in Education Administration, Student Personnel Services, from South Carolina and the Gamecock legacy runs deep with his wife, Tricia, and all four of their children, Dennis, Jr., Matt, Kaitlyn and Christopher earning degrees from the University of South Carolina.